Climate change, trade policy enter debate over Keystone XL

Wednesday’s congressional debate on the Keystone XL pipeline will be a forum for a host of other contentious topics, including climate change, oil spills and protectionist policy.

The debates will come as the House of Representatives takes up legislation to speed approval of the proposed Keystone XL pipeline that would carry diluted bitumen from Canadian oil sands developments to Gulf Coast refineries.

Although the bill sponsored by Rep. Lee Terry, R-Neb., probably will pass the House, it faces a presidential veto threat, and is unlikely to advance in the Senate anyway. Nevertheless, the legislation represents a new opportunity for Keystone XL’s congressional supporters to pressure the White House into approving TransCanada Corp.’s pipeline, eight years after the company first proposed it.

And to congressional Democrats — including some who support the pipeline — Wednesday’s debate is a chance to get lawmakers on record on politically sensitive issues surrounding the project.

For instance, Rep. Henry Waxman, D-Calif., wants the House to vote on an amendment that would add a provision stating that using oil sands crude would boost heat-trapping greenhouse gas emissions as much as 4.3 million passenger vehicles. Waxman’s proposal also would make the streamlined approval of Keystone XL under the bill contingent on oil sands producers or TransCanda fully offsetting greenhouse gas emissions associated with the project.

But the company says the products that Keystone XL would carry are no more corrosive than other crudes. It repeatedly has pledged to follow 57 extra conditions for design, maintenance and testing, in addition to all other federal safety regulations.l

Rep. Hank Johnson, D-Ga., has proposed an amendment that would require a study on the health effects of air pollution in communities surrounding refineries that process crude transported by the Keystone XL pipeline.

The House also is set to vote on an amendment that would require a government analysis of the projected costs, environmental damage and health effects of a spill from the pipeline.

Another proposal seeks to revive debate over who stands to benefit from Keystone XL’s construction and whether the oil sands crude transported across the United States would actually remain in the country. The House is set to vote on an amendment by Rep. Rush Holt, D-N.J., that would require oil and refined fuels associated with the Keystone XL pipeline to be used within U.S. borders unless that prohibition is waived by the president.

The underlying bill would authorize the Keystone XL pipeline by deeming existing environmental reviews of the project sufficient and effectively authorizing other necessary permits. It also would expedite judicial review of the pipeline and require legal challenges to be filed within 60 days.

Rep. Sheila Jackson-Lee, D-Houston, has proposed an amendment that would expand the time for filing legal claims to one year. On Wednesday, she argued that the bill’s requirement for challengers to file their legal claims against Keystone XL in a Washington, D.C.-based federal court — imposing too high a burden for critics in far-flung states.

In early debate Wednesday afternoon, congressional Democrats derided the bill as a political messaging bill that would do an end-run around the formal process for evaluating border-crossing energy infrastructure first established by former President George W. Bush in 2004.

“For the eighth time in two-and-a-half years, we’re voting on another Keystone XL measure that will never become law,” said Jared Polis, D-Colo.

Under a 9-year-old executive order, the State Department is tasked with determining whether the project is in the “national interest.” If any one of eight separate federal agencies disagrees with State’s decision, that would launch a process that would put the final verdict in President Barack Obama’s hands.

In the meantime, TransCanada Corp., is already building the southern leg of the pipeline.

The backdrop for the debate over Keystone XL is a bigger fight over the Canadian oil sands development. Environmentalists contend that the proposed pipeline would spur more oil development in Alberta using more energy-intensive techniques than extraction of conventional crudes. The result, these critics say, is more greenhouse gas emissions over the entire life of the oil sands crude — from its initial extraction to its combustion.

Pipeline backers insist that blocking Keystone XL will do little to inhibit oil sands development. Trains and other pipelines will carry the product to the Gulf Coast even without Keystone XL, these supporters say, even as other projects could deliver bitumen to Canada’s west coast for export to Asian markets.

Pipeline backers also say Keystone XL would ensure a source of heavy crude from a North American ally, displacing supplies from Venezuela and declining imports from Mexico.

Photo: Pete Marovich / Bloomberg

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Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance (CIA), a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders, ride horses past the U.S. Capitol during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Tuesday, April 22, 2014. TransCanada Corp. is awaiting a U.S. permit to build the northern leg of Keystone XL, which would supply U.S. Gulf Coast refineries with crude from Alberta's oil sands. Because it crosses an international boundary, the proposal requires State Department approval. Photographer: Pete Marovich/Bloomberg less

Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance (CIA), a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders, ride horses past the U.S. Capitol during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall in ... more

Photo: Pete Marovich / Bloomberg

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WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Native Americans from various tribes work together to erect a large tepee as part of a demonstration against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Native Americans from various tribes work together to erect a large tepee as part of a demonstration against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall April 22, 2014 in ... more

Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images

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Tom Genung from Nebraska, and a member of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance sets up camp on the Mall in Washington, D.C. as a protest of the proposed construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, April 22, 2014. (Olivier Douliery/Abaca Press/MCT) less

Tom Genung from Nebraska, and a member of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance sets up camp on the Mall in Washington, D.C. as a protest of the proposed construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, April 22, 2014. ... more

Photo: Olivier Douliery / McClatchy-Tribune News Service

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A coalition of Native American groups and cattle ranchers -- the Cowboy and Indian Alliance -- take a horseback ride around the Mall in Washington, D.C. as a protest of the proposed construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, April 22, 2014. (Olivier Douliery/Abaca Press/MCT) less

A coalition of Native American groups and cattle ranchers -- the Cowboy and Indian Alliance -- take a horseback ride around the Mall in Washington, D.C. as a protest of the proposed construction of the ... more

Photo: Olivier Douliery / McClatchy-Tribune News Service

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Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders hold signs during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, April 22, 2014. TransCanada Corp. is awaiting a U.S. permit to build the northern leg of Keystone XL, which would supply U.S. Gulf Coast refineries with crude from Alberta's oil sands. Because it crosses an international boundary, the proposal requires State Department approval. less

Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders hold signs during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, ... more

Photo: Pete Marovich / Bloomberg

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Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders hold signs during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, April 22, 2014. TransCanada Corp. is awaiting a U.S. permit to build the northern leg of Keystone XL, which would supply U.S. Gulf Coast refineries with crude from Alberta's oil sands. Because it crosses an international boundary, the proposal requires State Department approval. less

Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders hold signs during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, ... more

Photo: Pete Marovich / Bloomberg

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Amy Ray (left) and Emily Saliers of the Indigo Girls, perform on the National Mall during a protest against the Keystone XL Pipeline by the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders, in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, April 22, 2014. TransCanada Corp. is awaiting a U.S. permit to build the northern leg of Keystone XL, which would supply U.S. Gulf Coast refineries with crude from Alberta's oil sands. Because it crosses an international boundary, the proposal requires State Department approval. less

Amy Ray (left) and Emily Saliers of the Indigo Girls, perform on the National Mall during a protest against the Keystone XL Pipeline by the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, a group of ranchers, farmers and ... more

Photo: Pete Marovich / Bloomberg

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A "Reject and Protect" sign hangs at an encampment set up by the Cowboy and Indian Alliance (CIA), a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Tuesday, April 22, 2014. TransCanada Corp. is awaiting a U.S. permit to build the northern leg of Keystone XL, which would supply U.S. Gulf Coast refineries with crude from Alberta's oil sands. Because it crosses an international boundary, the proposal requires State Department approval. Photographer: Pete Marovich/Bloomberg less

A "Reject and Protect" sign hangs at an encampment set up by the Cowboy and Indian Alliance (CIA), a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline on the ... more

Photo: Pete Marovich / Bloomberg

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Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance (CIA), a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders, march outside the U.S. Capitol during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Tuesday, April 22, 2014. TransCanada Corp. is awaiting a U.S. permit to build the northern leg of Keystone XL, which would supply U.S. Gulf Coast refineries with crude from Alberta's oil sands. Because it crosses an international boundary, the proposal requires State Department approval. Photographer: Pete Marovich/Bloomberg less

Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance (CIA), a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders, march outside the U.S. Capitol during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall in ... more

Photo: Pete Marovich / Bloomberg

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Gianna Strong, 19, of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Tribe in Morton, Minnesota, pours water into the Reflecting Pool in front of the U.S. Capitol during a traditional water ceremony, as part of a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Tuesday, April 22, 2014. TransCanada Corp. is awaiting a U.S. permit to build the northern leg of Keystone XL, which would supply U.S. Gulf Coast refineries with crude from Alberta's oil sands. Because it crosses an international boundary, the proposal requires State Department approval. Photographer: Pete Marovich/Bloomberg *** Local Caption *** Gianna Strong less

Gianna Strong, 19, of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Tribe in Morton, Minnesota, pours water into the Reflecting Pool in front of the U.S. Capitol during a traditional water ceremony, as part of a protest against the ... more

Photo: Pete Marovich / Bloomberg

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Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance (CIA), a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders, march during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Tuesday, April 22, 2014. TransCanada Corp. is awaiting a U.S. permit to build the northern leg of Keystone XL, which would supply U.S. Gulf Coast refineries with crude from Alberta's oil sands. Because it crosses an international boundary, the proposal requires State Department approval. Photographer: Pete Marovich/Bloomberg less

Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance (CIA), a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders, march during a protest against the Keystone XL pipeline in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Tuesday, April 22, ... more

Photo: Pete Marovich / Bloomberg

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WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native Americans, farmers and ranchers from across the United States, are escorted by police as they march down Independence Avenue while demonstrating against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native Americans, farmers and ranchers from across the United States, are escorted by police as they march down Independence ... more

Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images

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WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: (L-R) Farhad Ebrahimi of Boston, Virgina Leavell of the District of Columbia and David Turnbull of San Francisco scoop horse manure up from the middle of Independence Avenue after members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance rode horseback while demonstrating against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: (L-R) Farhad Ebrahimi of Boston, Virgina Leavell of the District of Columbia and David Turnbull of San Francisco scoop horse manure up from the middle of Independence Avenue after ... more

Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images

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WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native Americans, farmers and ranchers from across the United States, ride horseback down Independence Avenue as part of a demonstration against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native Americans, farmers and ranchers from across the United States, ride horseback down Independence Avenue as part of a ... more

Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images

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WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Casey Camp of the Ponca Nation (L) shakes hands with Piscataway Indian Nation Chief Billy Redwing Tayac during a traditional opening ceremony to begin a demonstration against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline at the U.S. Capitol Reflecting Pool on the National Mall April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Casey Camp of the Ponca Nation (L) shakes hands with Piscataway Indian Nation Chief Billy Redwing Tayac during a traditional opening ceremony to begin a demonstration against the ... more

Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images

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WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Native Americans from various tribes work to erect a large tepee as part of a demonstration against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Native Americans from various tribes work to erect a large tepee as part of a demonstration against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall April 22, 2014 in ... more

Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images

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WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native Americans, farmers and ranchers from across the United States, prepare for a horseback ride as part of a demonstration against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native Americans, farmers and ranchers from across the United States, prepare for a horseback ride as part of a demonstration ... more

Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images

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WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: (L-R) Samantha Jones (L) of the Sicangu Lakota Band of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe from Rosebud, South Dakota and Brandie Molina help raise a large tepee as part of a demonstration against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: (L-R) Samantha Jones (L) of the Sicangu Lakota Band of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe from Rosebud, South Dakota and Brandie Molina help raise a large tepee as part of a demonstration ... more

Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images

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WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Shane Red Hawk of the Sicangu Lakota Band of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe from Rosebud, South Dakota, joins other members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance for a horseback ride on Independence Avenue while demonstrating against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Shane Red Hawk of the Sicangu Lakota Band of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe from Rosebud, South Dakota, joins other members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance for a horseback ride on ... more

Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images

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WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native American tribal leaders and non-native farmers and ranchers from across the United States, march past the U.S. Captiol while demonstrating against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native American tribal leaders and non-native farmers and ranchers from across the United States, march past the U.S. Captiol ... more

Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images

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WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native American tribal leaders and non-native farmers and ranchers from across the United States, march down Independence Avenue while demonstrating against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native American tribal leaders and non-native farmers and ranchers from across the United States, march down Independence Avenue ... more

Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images

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WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Shane Red Hawk (R) of the Sicangu Lakota Band of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe from Rosebud, South Dakota, joins other members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance for a horseback ride on Independence Avenue while demonstrating against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Shane Red Hawk (R) of the Sicangu Lakota Band of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe from Rosebud, South Dakota, joins other members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance for a horseback ride on ... more

Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images

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WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native Americans, farmers and ranchers from across the United States, prepare for a horseback ride to demonstrate against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline in front of the U.S. Capitol April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native Americans, farmers and ranchers from across the United States, prepare for a horseback ride to demonstrate against the ... more

Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images

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WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native American tribal leaders and non-native farmers and ranchers from across the United States, erect a large tepee while demonstrating against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline on the National Mall April 22, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its "Reject and Protect" protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) less

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 22: Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance, including Native American tribal leaders and non-native farmers and ranchers from across the United States, erect a large tepee while ... more

Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images

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WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 23: Bryan Brewer (R), president of the Oglala Sioux Tribe of South Dakota walks up to Indian teepees that are on the National Mall as part of a protest against the Keystone pipeline, April 23, 2014 in Washington, DC. As part of its 'Reject and Protect' protest, the Cowboy and Indian Alliance is organizing a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes to show their opposition to the pipeline. (Photo by Mark Wilson/Getty Images) less

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 23: Bryan Brewer (R), president of the Oglala Sioux Tribe of South Dakota walks up to Indian teepees that are on the National Mall as part of a protest against the Keystone pipeline, ... more

Photo: Mark Wilson / Getty Images

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Paula-May Belous, left, and her husband Michael Belous, both from Brisbane, Australia, pose in the door of a teepee on the National Mall in Washington, Monday, April 21, 2014, with the Washington Monument in the background. The Cowboy and Indian Alliance (CIA), a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders, will host an encampment on the National Mall for a weeks worth of Reject and Protect actions against the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) less

Paula-May Belous, left, and her husband Michael Belous, both from Brisbane, Australia, pose in the door of a teepee on the National Mall in Washington, Monday, April 21, 2014, with the Washington Monument in ... more

Photo: Alex Brandon / Associated Press

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Matt Buban, right, and Ben Thompson, both from from Charles Town, W.Va., with One Heart One Mind, set up teepee poles on the National Mall in Washington, Monday, April 21, 2014. The Cowboy and Indian Alliance (CIA), a group of ranchers, farmers and indigenous leaders, will host an encampment on the National Mall for a weeks worth of Reject and Protect actions against the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) less

Matt Buban, right, and Ben Thompson, both from from Charles Town, W.Va., with One Heart One Mind, set up teepee poles on the National Mall in Washington, Monday, April 21, 2014. The Cowboy and Indian Alliance ... more

Photo: Alex Brandon / Associated Press

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A coalition of Native American groups and cattle ranchers -- the Cowboy and Indian Alliance -- take a horseback ride around the Mall in Washington, D.C. as a protest of the proposed construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, April 22, 2014. (Olivier Douliery/Abaca Press/MCT) less

A coalition of Native American groups and cattle ranchers -- the Cowboy and Indian Alliance -- take a horseback ride around the Mall in Washington, D.C. as a protest of the proposed construction of the ... more

Photo: Olivier Douliery / McClatchy-Tribune News Service

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A coalition of Native American groups and cattle ranchers -- the Cowboy and Indian Alliance -- take a horseback ride around the Mall in Washington, D.C. as a protest of the proposed construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, April 22, 2014. (Olivier Douliery/Abaca Press/MCT) less

A coalition of Native American groups and cattle ranchers -- the Cowboy and Indian Alliance -- take a horseback ride around the Mall in Washington, D.C. as a protest of the proposed construction of the ... more

Photo: Olivier Douliery / McClatchy-Tribune News Service

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Native Americans, farmers and ranchers hold a ceremony in front of the US Capitol in Washington on April 22, 2014 as the Cowboy and Indian Alliance protest the proposed Keystone XL pipeline, part of "Reject and Protect," a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes against the tar sands oil pipeline from Canada to the US. AFP PHOTO/Nicholas KAMMNICHOLAS KAMM/AFP/Getty Images less

Native Americans, farmers and ranchers hold a ceremony in front of the US Capitol in Washington on April 22, 2014 as the Cowboy and Indian Alliance protest the proposed Keystone XL pipeline, part of "Reject ... more

Photo: NICHOLAS KAMM / AFP/Getty Images

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Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance hold signs in front of the US Capitol in Washington on April 22, 2014 as they protest the proposed Keystone XL pipeline, part of "Reject and Protect," a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes against the tar sands oil pipeline from Canada to the US. AFP PHOTO/Nicholas KAMMNICHOLAS KAMM/AFP/Getty Images less

Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance hold signs in front of the US Capitol in Washington on April 22, 2014 as they protest the proposed Keystone XL pipeline, part of "Reject and Protect," a weeklong ... more

Photo: NICHOLAS KAMM / AFP/Getty Images

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Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance march in Washington on April 22, 2014 as they protest the proposed Keystone XL pipeline, part of "Reject and Protect," a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes against the tar sands oil pipeline from Canada to the US. AFP PHOTO/Nicholas KAMMNICHOLAS KAMM/AFP/Getty Images less

Members of the Cowboy and Indian Alliance march in Washington on April 22, 2014 as they protest the proposed Keystone XL pipeline, part of "Reject and Protect," a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ... more

Photo: NICHOLAS KAMM / AFP/Getty Images

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TOPSHOTS
A Native American tribal leader sits on his horse in front of the US Capitol in Washington on April 22, 2014 as the Cowboy and Indian Alliance protest the proposed Keystone XL pipeline, part of "Reject and Protect," a weeklong series of actions by farmers, ranchers and tribes against the tar sands oil pipeline from Canada to the US. AFP PHOTO/Nicholas KAMMNICHOLAS KAMM/AFP/Getty Images less

TOPSHOTS
A Native American tribal leader sits on his horse in front of the US Capitol in Washington on April 22, 2014 as the Cowboy and Indian Alliance protest the proposed Keystone XL pipeline, part of ... more

Photo: NICHOLAS KAMM / AFP/Getty Images

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Demonstrators protest against the Keystone XL pipeline, in Washington, D.C., on March 7, 2014.

Demonstrators protest against the Keystone XL pipeline, in Washington, D.C., on March 7, 2014.

Photo: Alex Wong / Getty Images

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A huge crop art image protesting the proposed Keystone XL pipline covers an 80-acre cornfield outside of Neligh, Neb. Farmer Art Tanderup, who owns the land, drove the tractor that carved the image into dirt. It was based on a design created by artists John Quigley and Richard Vollaire. less

Police scuffle with protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, as they block a door to the federal building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute to global warming. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) less

Police scuffle with protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, as they block a door to the federal building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the ... more

Photo: Matt Rourke / AP

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Police scuffle with protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, as they block a door to the federal building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute to global warming. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) less

Police scuffle with protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, as they block a door to the federal building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the ... more

Photo: Matt Rourke / AP

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Police scuffle with protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, as they block a door to the federal building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute to global warming. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) less

Police scuffle with protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, as they block a door to the federal building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the ... more

Photo: Matt Rourke / AP

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Protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, wait to be detained for blocking a door to a federal building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute to global warming. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) less

Protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, wait to be detained for blocking a door to a federal building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the ... more

Photo: Matt Rourke / AP

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Protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, block the door to the federal building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute to global warming. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) less

Protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, block the door to the federal building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute ... more

Photo: Matt Rourke / AP

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Police detain a protester demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, outside the Federal Building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute to global warming. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) less

Police detain a protester demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, outside the Federal Building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would ... more

Photo: Matt Rourke / AP

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Police detain a protester demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, outside the Federal Building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute to global warming. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) less

Police detain a protester demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, outside the Federal Building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would ... more

Photo: Matt Rourke / AP

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Police detain protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, outside the Federal Building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute to global warming. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) less

Police detain protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, outside the Federal Building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would ... more

Photo: Matt Rourke / AP

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A man tries, in blue, to get past protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, in front of the entrance to the Federal Building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute to global warming. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) less

A man tries, in blue, to get past protesters demonstrating in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, in front of the entrance to the Federal Building in Philadelphia. The ... more

Photo: Matt Rourke / AP

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Protesters demonstrated in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, outside the Federal Building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute to global warming. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) less

Protesters demonstrated in opposition to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Monday, March 10, 2014, outside the Federal Building in Philadelphia. The protestors say the pipeline would contribute to global ... more

Photo: Matt Rourke / AP

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Several hundred students and youth who marched from Georgetown University to the White House to protest the Keystone XL Pipeline are arrested outside the White House in Washington, Sunday, March 2, 2014. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh) less

Several hundred students and youth who marched from Georgetown University to the White House to protest the Keystone XL Pipeline are arrested outside the White House in Washington, Sunday, March 2, 2014. (AP ... more

Photo: Susan Walsh / ASSOCIATED PRESS

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Alex Smiley, from left, and Katy Hellman, who are strapped to the White House fence in Washington, chant during a protest against the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Sunday, March 2, 2014. They were later arrested. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta) less

Alex Smiley, from left, and Katy Hellman, who are strapped to the White House fence in Washington, chant during a protest against the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Sunday, March 2, 2014. They were later ... more

Photo: Manuel Balce Ceneta / ASSOCIATED PRESS

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People protest against the XL Pipeline outside the White House in Washington, Sunday, March 2, 2014. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)

People protest against the XL Pipeline outside the White House in Washington, Sunday, March 2, 2014. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)

Photo: Susan Walsh / ASSOCIATED PRESS

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Protestors are strapped to the White House fence in Washington, during a protest against the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Sunday, March 2, 2014. They were later arrested. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

Protestors are strapped to the White House fence in Washington, during a protest against the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Sunday, March 2, 2014. They were later arrested. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

Photo: Manuel Balce Ceneta / ASSOCIATED PRESS

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Several hundred students and youth who marched from Georgetown University to the White House to protest the Keystone XL Pipeline tied themselves to the fence outside the White House in Washington, Sunday, March 2, 2014. Many of those protesting were arrested. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh) less

Several hundred students and youth who marched from Georgetown University to the White House to protest the Keystone XL Pipeline tied themselves to the fence outside the White House in Washington, Sunday, ... more

Photo: Susan Walsh / ASSOCIATED PRESS

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Several hundred students and youth who marched from Georgetown University to the White House to protest the Keystone XL Pipeline tied themselves to the fence outside the White House in Washington, Sunday, March 2, 2014. Many of those protesting were arrested. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh) less

Several hundred students and youth who marched from Georgetown University to the White House to protest the Keystone XL Pipeline tied themselves to the fence outside the White House in Washington, Sunday, ... more

Photo: Susan Walsh / ASSOCIATED PRESS

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Protestors who are strapped to the White House fence in Washington, chant during a protest against the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Sunday, March 2, 2014. They were later arrested. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta) less

Protestors who are strapped to the White House fence in Washington, chant during a protest against the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Sunday, March 2, 2014. They were later arrested. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce ... more

Photo: Manuel Balce Ceneta / ASSOCIATED PRESS

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Demonstrators who are strapped to the White House fence in Washington, chant during a protest against the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Sunday, March 2, 2014. They were later arrested. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta) less

Demonstrators who are strapped to the White House fence in Washington, chant during a protest against the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, Sunday, March 2, 2014. They were later arrested. (AP Photo/Manuel ... more

Photo: Manuel Balce Ceneta / ASSOCIATED PRESS

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Several hundred students and youth who marched from Georgetown University to the White House to protest the Keystone XL Pipeline are arrested outside the White House in Washington, Sunday, March 2, 2014. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh) less

Several hundred students and youth who marched from Georgetown University to the White House to protest the Keystone XL Pipeline are arrested outside the White House in Washington, Sunday, March 2, 2014. (AP ... more

Photo: Susan Walsh / ASSOCIATED PRESS

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Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)

Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)

Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle

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Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)

Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)

Photo: Eric Kayne / For the Chronicle

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A sign reading "Stop the Transcanada Pipeline" stands in a field near Bradshaw, Neb. The proposed Keystone XL pipeline will run through this field. In a move that disappointed environmental groups and cheered the oil industry, the Obama administration on Jan. 31, 2014, said it had no major environmental objections to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline from Canada. less

A sign reading "Stop the Transcanada Pipeline" stands in a field near Bradshaw, Neb. The proposed Keystone XL pipeline will run through this field. In a move that disappointed environmental groups and cheered ... more

Photo: NH / AP

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Crews work on construction of the TransCanada Keystone XL Pipeline near County Road 363 and County Road 357, east of Winona, Texas. In a move that disappointed environmental groups and cheered the oil industry, the Obama administration on Jan. 31, 2014, said it had no major environmental objections to the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline from Canada. less

Crews work on construction of the TransCanada Keystone XL Pipeline near County Road 363 and County Road 357, east of Winona, Texas. In a move that disappointed environmental groups and cheered the oil ... more

Photo: Sarah A. Miller / AP

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Atkinson, Neb., rancher Bruce Boettcher, who opposes the Keystone XL pipeline, kicks up sand on his land, to demonstrate the fragility of the sand hills near the planned route of the pipeline. The long-delayed Keystone XL oil pipeline cleared a major hurdle Friday, Jan. 31, 2014 as the U.S.State Department raised no major environmental objections to the controversial pipeline from Canada through the heart of the U.S. Republicans and some oil- and gas-producing states cheered, but the report further rankled environmentalists already at odds with President Barack Obama. (AP Photo/Nati Harnik, File) less

Atkinson, Neb., rancher Bruce Boettcher, who opposes the Keystone XL pipeline, kicks up sand on his land, to demonstrate the fragility of the sand hills near the planned route of the pipeline. The long-delayed ... more

Photo: Nati Harnik / AP

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Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)

Protestors perform civil disobedience by chanting and holding signs while criminally trespassing Sept. 16, 2013 in Houston in front of the TransCanada headquarters in downtown.
(Eric Kayne/For the Chronicle)

Police line up near the intersection of Texas Avenue and Milam Street, where protesters against the Keystone XL pipeline were arrested while demonstrating outside of TransCanada offices.

Police line up near the intersection of Texas Avenue and Milam Street, where protesters against the Keystone XL pipeline were arrested while demonstrating outside of TransCanada offices.

Photo: Dane Schiller / Houston Chronicle

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Protesters against the Keystone XL pipeline demonstrate in downtown Houston on Monday, September 16, 2013.

Protesters against the Keystone XL pipeline demonstrate in downtown Houston on Monday, September 16, 2013.

Photo: Zain Shauk / Houston Chronicle

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About 200 activists stage a sit-in outside the US State Department in opposition to the Keystone XL pipeline in an attempt to maintain pressure on President Obama to keep his promise to fight climate change by rejecting the Keystone XL pipeline, August 12, 2013, in Washington, DC. less

About 200 activists stage a sit-in outside the US State Department in opposition to the Keystone XL pipeline in an attempt to maintain pressure on President Obama to keep his promise to fight climate change by ... more

Photo: PAUL J. RICHARDS / AFP/Getty Images

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About 200 activists march on the US State Department in opposition to the Keystone XL pipeline August 12, 2013, at the US Department of State in Washington, DC. Activists staged a sit-in and a protest at the State Department building Monday,as part of a planned act of civil disobedience that CREDO, Rainforest Action Network and the Other 98% have staged this summer to maintain pressure on the president to keep his promise to fight climate change by rejecting the Keystone XL pipeline. less

About 200 activists march on the US State Department in opposition to the Keystone XL pipeline August 12, 2013, at the US Department of State in Washington, DC. Activists staged a sit-in and a protest at the ... more

Photo: PAUL J. RICHARDS / AFP/Getty Images

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An activist holds up a sign during a sit-in and protest against the Keystone XL pipeline outside the U.S. State Department August 12, 2013 in Washington, DC. Activists from the Rainforest Action Network, CREDO and other groups expressed their opposition to the Keystone XL pipeline and urged "to maintain pressure on the president to keep his promise to fight climate change by rejecting the Keystone XL pipeline." less

An activist holds up a sign during a sit-in and protest against the Keystone XL pipeline outside the U.S. State Department August 12, 2013 in Washington, DC. Activists from the Rainforest Action Network, CREDO ... more

Photo: Alex Wong / Getty Images

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An activist holds a sign as he participates in a sit-in and protest against the Keystone XL pipeline outside the U.S. State Department August 12, 2013 in Washington, DC. Activists from the Rainforest Action Network, CREDO and other groups expressed their opposition to the Keystone XL pipeline and urged "to maintain pressure on the president to keep his promise to fight climate change by rejecting the Keystone XL pipeline." less

An activist holds a sign as he participates in a sit-in and protest against the Keystone XL pipeline outside the U.S. State Department August 12, 2013 in Washington, DC. Activists from the Rainforest Action ... more

Photo: Alex Wong / Getty Images

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Activists stage a sit-in and protest against the Keystone XL pipeline outside the U.S. State Department August 12, 2013 in Washington, DC. Activists from the Rainforest Action Network, CREDO and other groups expressed their opposition to the Keystone XL pipeline and urged "to maintain pressure on the president to keep his promise to fight climate change by rejecting the Keystone XL pipeline." less

Activists stage a sit-in and protest against the Keystone XL pipeline outside the U.S. State Department August 12, 2013 in Washington, DC. Activists from the Rainforest Action Network, CREDO and other groups ... more

Photo: Alex Wong / Getty Images

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Activists stage a sit-in and protest against the Keystone XL pipeline outside the U.S. State Department August 12, 2013 in Washington, DC. Activists from the Rainforest Action Network, CREDO and other groups expressed their opposition to the Keystone XL pipeline and urged "to maintain pressure on the president to keep his promise to fight climate change by rejecting the Keystone XL pipeline." less

Activists stage a sit-in and protest against the Keystone XL pipeline outside the U.S. State Department August 12, 2013 in Washington, DC. Activists from the Rainforest Action Network, CREDO and other groups ... more

Photo: Alex Wong / Getty Images

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Activists march to the U.S. State Department to protest against the Keystone XL pipeline August 12, 2013 in Washington, DC. Activists from the Rainforest Action Network, CREDO and other groups expressed their opposition to the Keystone XL pipeline and urged "to maintain pressure on the president to keep his promise to fight climate change by rejecting the Keystone XL pipeline." less

Activists march to the U.S. State Department to protest against the Keystone XL pipeline August 12, 2013 in Washington, DC. Activists from the Rainforest Action Network, CREDO and other groups expressed their ... more

Photo: Alex Wong / Getty Images

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Protesters against the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline including Cat Bell (middle) wait for the arrival of Vice President Joe Biden visiting for a fundraiser in San Francisco , Calif., on Friday, June 14, 2013.

Protesters against the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline including Cat Bell (middle) wait for the arrival of Vice President Joe Biden visiting for a fundraiser in San Francisco , Calif., on Friday, June 14, 2013.

Photo: Liz Hafalia / The Chronicle

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Stephen Malagodi holds a sign expressing his opinion about the proposed Keystone pipeline during a climate change rally on August 9, 2013 in Miami, Florida. The rally featured Bill Richardson, former Governor of New Mexico, and was joined by local elected officials and community advocates to highlight the impacts of extreme weather and climate change in South Florida and call for bold federal action on climate solutions. less

Stephen Malagodi holds a sign expressing his opinion about the proposed Keystone pipeline during a climate change rally on August 9, 2013 in Miami, Florida. The rally featured Bill Richardson, former Governor ... more

Photo: Joe Raedle / Getty Images

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Protesters zig zag their way up to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists march on the Golden Gate Bridge to protest the Keystone XL pipeline. less

Protesters zig zag their way up to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists march on the Golden Gate Bridge to protest the ... more

Photo: Michael Macor / The Chronicle

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John Hauf of Fairfax, (center) joins hundreds of protesters as they make their way across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists march on the Golden Gate Bridge to protest the Keystone XL pipeline. less

John Hauf of Fairfax, (center) joins hundreds of protesters as they make their way across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists ... more

Photo: Michael Macor / The Chronicle

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Hundreds of protesters make their way up to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists march on the Golden Gate Bridge to protest the Keystone XL pipeline. less

Hundreds of protesters make their way up to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists march on the Golden Gate Bridge to protest ... more

Photo: Michael Macor / The Chronicle

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HUndreds of protesters make their way across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists march on the Golden Gate Bridge to protest the Keystone XL pipeline. less

HUndreds of protesters make their way across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists march on the Golden Gate Bridge to protest ... more

Photo: Michael Macor / The Chronicle

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Hundreds of protesters make their way across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists march on the Golden Gate Bridge to protest the Keystone XL pipeline. less

Hundreds of protesters make their way across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists march on the Golden Gate Bridge to protest ... more

Photo: Michael Macor / The Chronicle

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Protesters against the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline including Molly Helfend (left) wait for the arrival of Vice President Joe Biden visiting for a fundraiser in San Francisco , Calif., on Friday, June 14, 2013. less

Protesters against the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline including Molly Helfend (left) wait for the arrival of Vice President Joe Biden visiting for a fundraiser in San Francisco , Calif., on Friday, June 14, ... more

Photo: Liz Hafalia / The Chronicle

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Protesters against the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline wait for the arrival of Vice President Joe Biden visiting for a fundraiser in San Francisco , Calif., on Friday, June 14, 2013.

Protesters against the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline wait for the arrival of Vice President Joe Biden visiting for a fundraiser in San Francisco , Calif., on Friday, June 14, 2013.

Photo: Liz Hafalia / The Chronicle

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Protesters against the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline including Laura Waters (middle, left) and Christy Hurlburt (middle, right) wait for the arrival of Vice President Joe Biden visiting for a fundraiser in San Francisco , Calif., on Friday, June 14, 2013. less

Protesters against the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline including Laura Waters (middle, left) and Christy Hurlburt (middle, right) wait for the arrival of Vice President Joe Biden visiting for a fundraiser in ... more

Photo: Liz Hafalia / The Chronicle

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A protester prepares for a pre-march rally as protesters gathered to make their way across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists march on the Golden Gate Bridge to protest the Keystone XL pipeline. less

A protester prepares for a pre-march rally as protesters gathered to make their way across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and ... more

Photo: Michael Macor / The Chronicle

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Gail Graham of Stinson Beach joined hundreds of protesters for a pre-march rally as the prepared to cross the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and environmentalists march on the Golden Gate Bridge to protest the Keystone XL pipeline. less

Gail Graham of Stinson Beach joined hundreds of protesters for a pre-march rally as the prepared to cross the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday June 20, 2013. National Nurses United and ... more

Photo: Michael Macor / The Chronicle

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A mock oil pipeline is carried during a Keystone XL tar sands oil pipeline demonstration near the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. Pipeline opponents say extracting crude from sand emits three times more carbon than conventional oil production, contributing to global warming that Obama pledged to fight. They say their protest in Washington reflects public anger at corporate greed. less

A mock oil pipeline is carried during a Keystone XL tar sands oil pipeline demonstration near the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. Pipeline opponents say extracting crude from ... more

Photo: Andrew Harrer / Bloomberg

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Scores of Keystone XL Pipeline protesters, led by the Tar Sands Blockade, protested oustide one of TransCanada's Houston offices.

Scores of Keystone XL Pipeline protesters, led by the Tar Sands Blockade, protested oustide one of TransCanada's Houston offices.

Photo: Cody Duty / Houston Chronicle

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Michael Bishop poses Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2012, with a pair of flags flying in protest of the planned Keystone XL pipeline, near the entrance to his property south of Douglass, Texas, which is directly in the path of the project. less

Michael Bishop poses Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2012, with a pair of flags flying in protest of the planned Keystone XL pipeline, near the entrance to his property south of Douglass, Texas, which is directly in the ... more

Photo: Andrew D. Brosig / AP

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Eddy Radillo of Yantis, sings and holds a Texas flag and a sign opposing the Transcanada Keystone Pipeline on Feb. 17, 2012 outside of the Lamar County Courthouse in Paris, Texas.

Eddy Radillo of Yantis, sings and holds a Texas flag and a sign opposing the Transcanada Keystone Pipeline on Feb. 17, 2012 outside of the Lamar County Courthouse in Paris, Texas.

Photo: Sam Craft / AP

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A member of the Tar Sands Blockade is arrested after protesting in front of a Houston building, in the 2700 block of Post Oak Blvd., where TransCanada has offices. TransCanada is owner of the Keystone XL pipeline. less

A member of the Tar Sands Blockade is arrested after protesting in front of a Houston building, in the 2700 block of Post Oak Blvd., where TransCanada has offices. TransCanada is owner of the Keystone XL ... more

A protester identified as Peter Graham displays a banner from the flagpole at the downtown offices of LyondellBasell, opposing a refinery expansion that would process Canadian crude transported in the Keystone XL Pipeline. less

A protester identified as Peter Graham displays a banner from the flagpole at the downtown offices of LyondellBasell, opposing a refinery expansion that would process Canadian crude transported in the Keystone ... more

Photo: Nick de la Torre / Houston Chronicle

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Perry Graham is arrested for trespassing after climbing a flag pole at LyondellBasell tower to protest a pipeline through Tar Springs.

Perry Graham is arrested for trespassing after climbing a flag pole at LyondellBasell tower to protest a pipeline through Tar Springs.

Photo: Nick de la Torre / Houston Chronicle

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Protesters, costumed as a papier-mache dragon, march near Houston's Galleria mall to oppose the Keystone XL Pipeline.

Protesters, costumed as a papier-mache dragon, march near Houston's Galleria mall to oppose the Keystone XL Pipeline.

Photo: Zain Shauk / Houston Chronicle

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Protesters distributed a flier to shoppers and other passers by detailing their arguments against the Keystone XL pipeline.

Protesters distributed a flier to shoppers and other passers by detailing their arguments against the Keystone XL pipeline.

Photo: Zain Shauk/Houston Chronicle

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A member of the Tar Sands Blockade addresses police in front of a Houston building where a TransCanada office is located.

A member of the Tar Sands Blockade addresses police in front of a Houston building where a TransCanada office is located.

Protestors sit in the lobby of a building in the 2700 block of Post Oak Blvd., containing an office for Transcanada, owner of the Keystone XL Pipeline.

Protestors sit in the lobby of a building in the 2700 block of Post Oak Blvd., containing an office for Transcanada, owner of the Keystone XL Pipeline.

Photo: Cody Duty/Houston Chronicle / Houston Chronicle

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Protestors sit in the lobby of a Houston building containing offices for TransCanada, owner of the Keystone XL Pipeline.

Protestors sit in the lobby of a Houston building containing offices for TransCanada, owner of the Keystone XL Pipeline.

Photo: Cody Duty/Houston Chronicle / Houston Chronicle

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Eight people climbed 80 feet into trees in the path of Keystone XL construction, and pledged not to come down until the pipeline is stopped for good.

Eight people climbed 80 feet into trees in the path of Keystone XL construction, and pledged not to come down until the pipeline is stopped for good.

Photo: Tar Sands Blockade

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On Sept. 11, 2011, demonstrators for and against the Keystone XL pipeline gathered near the state Capitol in Lincoln, Neb., as public hearings took place about the proposed Keystone XL Pipeline, which would carry tar sands oil from Canada to Texas through the sandhills of Nebraska. Supporters of the pipeline, which include labor unions and business groups, spoke of jobs and development and energy security. less

On Sept. 11, 2011, demonstrators for and against the Keystone XL pipeline gathered near the state Capitol in Lincoln, Neb., as public hearings took place about the proposed Keystone XL Pipeline, which would ... more

Photo: Nati Harnik / AP

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Demonstrators hold signs next to the Treasury building during a Keystone XL tar sands oil pipeline demonstration in Washington, D.C., on Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011. Pipeline opponents say extracting crude from sand emits three times more carbon than conventional oil production, contributing to global warming that Obama pledged to fight. They say their protest in Washington reflects public anger at corporate greed. less

Actress Daryl Hannah is arrested outside the White House in Washington, Wednesday, Feb. 13, 2013, as prominent environmental leaders tied themselves to the White House gate to protest the Keystone XL oil pipeline. less

Actress Daryl Hannah is arrested outside the White House in Washington, Wednesday, Feb. 13, 2013, as prominent environmental leaders tied themselves to the White House gate to protest the Keystone XL oil ... more

Photo: Ann Heisenfelt / AP

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Activists engage in civil disobedience Wednesday, February 13, 2013 at the White House in Washington, D.C., in hopes of pressuring President Barack Obama to reject the Keystone XL oil sands pipeline.

Activists engage in civil disobedience Wednesday, February 13, 2013 at the White House in Washington, D.C., in hopes of pressuring President Barack Obama to reject the Keystone XL oil sands pipeline.

Photo: Olivier Douliery / Abaca Press

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Activists engage in civil disobedience Wednesday, February 13, 2013 at the White House in Washington, D.C., in hopes of pressuring President Barack Obama to reject the Keystone XL oil sands pipeline.

Activists engage in civil disobedience Wednesday, February 13, 2013 at the White House in Washington, D.C., in hopes of pressuring President Barack Obama to reject the Keystone XL oil sands pipeline.

Photo: Olivier Douliery / Abaca Press

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Thousands of protestors gather at the National Mall in Washington calling on President Barack Obama to reject the Keystone XL oil pipeline from Canada, as well as act to limit carbon pollution from power plants. less

Thousands of protestors gather at the National Mall in Washington calling on President Barack Obama to reject the Keystone XL oil pipeline from Canada, as well as act to limit carbon pollution from power ... more

Photo: Manuel Balce Ceneta / AP

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A demonstrator dressed as an oil-soaked bird in Lafayette Park across from the White House in Washington D.C. on November 6, 2011.

A demonstrator dressed as an oil-soaked bird in Lafayette Park across from the White House in Washington D.C. on November 6, 2011.

Photo: KAREN BLEIER / AFP/Getty Images

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Protestors gathered in San Francisco on Wednesday April 3rd, 2013 to voice their opposition to the Keystone XL Pipeline during a visit by President Obama.

Protestors gathered in San Francisco on Wednesday April 3rd, 2013 to voice their opposition to the Keystone XL Pipeline during a visit by President Obama.

Photo: Michael Short / San Francisco Chronicle

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A protestor briefly climbed a tree as he and others gathered at the intersection of Divisadero and Broadway. Protestors gathered in San Francisco, CA Wednesday April 3rd, 2013 to voice their opposition to the Keystone XL Pipeline during a visit by President Obama. less

A protestor briefly climbed a tree as he and others gathered at the intersection of Divisadero and Broadway. Protestors gathered in San Francisco, CA Wednesday April 3rd, 2013 to voice their opposition to the ... more

Photo: Michael Short / San Francisco Chronicle

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Protestors against the Keystone XL pipeline dressed as referees throw red penalty flags during a rally on Capitol Hill in Washington. President Barack Obama faces mounting pressure on a decision he put off during his re-election campaign: whether to approve the $7 billion proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline between the U.S. and Canada. less

Protestors against the Keystone XL pipeline dressed as referees throw red penalty flags during a rally on Capitol Hill in Washington. President Barack Obama faces mounting pressure on a decision he put off ... more